10 Best Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains in the USA for Your Next Trip

Traveling with pets in the USA has become easier thanks to numerous hotel chains embracing pet-friendly policies. When selecting a hotel, it's crucial to check for specific policies, as they can vary by location. The best pet-friendly chains often offer more than just a room—they provide amenities like welcome treats, designated pet relief areas, and even loaner beds and bowls. Some top-rated options, such as Kimpton Hotels, are known for their incredibly lenient policies, often with no fees or weight restrictions.

Other popular choices like Motel 6 and Red Roof Inn are celebrated for their budget-friendly, no-fee policies, making them ideal for road trips. Meanwhile, chains like Hilton and La Quinta by Wyndham offer a balance of quality and convenience, though specific rules and fees can differ between properties. Always call ahead to confirm the most up-to-date policy at your chosen location to ensure a smooth trip with your furry companion.

Traveling with a furry family member used to be a major hassle, often involving a difficult choice between leaving your pet behind or scrambling to find a rare accommodation that would accept them. Thankfully, those days are largely behind us. The hospitality industry has caught up to the needs of modern travelers, and a growing number of hotel chains are rolling out the red carpet for pets.

Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or a weekend getaway, knowing which chains are truly pet-friendly can save you a lot of time and stress. I've found that using resources like DealsZo can be a huge help, as they assist shoppers in saving money by providing valuable deals and coupon codes for everything from travel to pet supplies.

In fact, a recent find was a fantastic 35 off vp+ promo code at Red Roof Inn, which made a last-minute trip with my dog not only possible but also incredibly affordable. In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best pet-friendly hotel chains in the USA, highlighting what makes each one a great choice for your next adventure with your four-legged companion.

1. Red Roof Inn 

Red Roof Inn is a champion of pet-friendly travel, earning its spot at the top of many lists. Their policy is straightforward and incredibly generous: one well-behaved pet stays free. This is a game-changer for budget-conscious travelers who often face hefty pet fees at other hotels. While they generally allow two pets up to 80 lbs, it’s always best to call ahead to confirm any location-specific policies. Their hotels are a no-frills, reliable option for road trippers, providing clean and comfortable rooms without the added cost of a pet fee. 

2. Kimpton Hotels 

Kimpton Hotels, part of the IHG family, is a brand that doesn't just tolerate pets—they celebrate them. They are famous for their "No-Fee, No-Size, No-Breed" pet policy. You can bring any number of pets, of any size or breed, for free. This is an unparalleled policy in the hotel industry. Kimpton also goes above and beyond, offering special amenities like loaner pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a list of nearby pet-friendly parks and restaurants. They treat your pet like a VIP, making your stay feel truly luxurious for both of you. 

3. Motel 6 

Motel 6 is another classic choice for pet owners on the road. Their policy is simple and wallet-friendly: pets stay free at most locations. This budget-friendly chain is a go-to for travelers needing a quick and easy stopover. They have a two-pet limit per room, but with no fee, it's one of the most economical options available. Just be sure to declare your pet at check-in and remember that some Studio 6 locations may have a small daily fee. 

4. La Quinta by Wyndham 

La Quinta by Wyndham has long been a favorite for pet owners. Their policy is friendly, allowing up to two domesticated pets per room. While they do charge an optional pet fee (typically around $20 per night with a maximum of $40 per stay), it’s often much lower than what you’ll find at other mid-range hotels. Most locations have designated pet-friendly rooms, and some even have grassy areas for your pet to get some exercise.

5. Best Western 

Best Western offers a huge number of pet-friendly locations, making it a great choice for cross-country travel. With over 1,200 pet-friendly hotels in North America, you're likely to find one wherever your travels take you. Their policy allows for up to two dogs per room with a combined weight limit of 80 lbs, but this can vary. Pet fees are also location-specific, so always check with the individual hotel before booking. Many locations are known for their welcoming hospitality and even provide a welcome goodie bag for your furry friend. 

6. Drury Hotels 

Drury Hotels is a fantastic option for families traveling with pets, primarily because of its generous amenities for both humans and animals. They welcome two pets with a combined weight of up to 80 lbs, and while there is a fee, it's often a reasonable flat rate per night. What sets Drury apart is their free breakfast and "5:30 Kickback" happy hour, which means you can fuel up for the day and wind down in the evening without having to leave your pet alone for a meal. 

7. Hilton Hotels (Brands)

Hilton has an extensive portfolio of brands with pet-friendly options, including Homewood Suites, Home2 Suites, Embassy Suites, and Hampton Inn. While policies vary greatly by brand and location, many of these hotels welcome pets with a weight limit (often around 75 lbs) and an associated fee. For instance, Home2 Suites is well-known for its pet-friendly ethos and offers a partnership with Mars Petcare, providing a great experience for both you and your pet 

8. Loews Hotels

Loews Hotels is a luxury brand that takes its "Loews Loves Pets" program seriously. They treat pets like true guests, offering services and amenities that go above and beyond the standard. Upon check-in, pets receive treats, bowls, and a special name tag. They even have a gourmet room service menu designed specifically for dogs and cats! While there is a fee, the level of care and attention your pet receives makes it a worthwhile choice for a truly special getaway.

9. Aloft Hotels

Aloft, a brand by Marriott, is a trendy and modern option for travelers with pets. Through their "Arf®" (Animals Are Fun) program, Aloft welcomes pets up to 40 lbs at most locations. Many hotels provide a pet bed, bowls, and complimentary treats upon arrival. A number of Aloft hotels even partner with local animal shelters to host adoptable dogs in their lobby, making for a truly unique and heartwarming stay.

10. Hyatt Hotels (Brands)

Similar to Hilton, Hyatt offers a range of pet-friendly options through its various brands, with Hyatt Place being a notable standout. Hyatt Place locations across the USA are generally pet-friendly, with standard fees and restrictions that make it a reliable choice. They often have dedicated pet-friendly rooms and are known for their modern comfort, making them a great base for exploring a new city with your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all hotels within these chains have the same pet policy?

No. While the chains have a general pet-friendly philosophy, policies can vary significantly between individual locations. It is crucial to always call the specific hotel you plan to book to confirm their current pet fees, weight limits, and any other restrictions.

What is the typical fee for a pet-friendly hotel?

Pet fees can range widely. Some hotels, like Red Roof Inn and Kimpton, charge no fee at all. Others may have a nightly fee (e.g., $20-50) or a flat fee per stay (e.g., $75-150). Some might also require a refundable damage deposit.

Are there any hotels that accept large dogs?

Yes. Kimpton Hotels famously has no size or weight restrictions. Other chains like Red Roof Inn, Best Western, and Drury Hotels often have a generous weight limit (e.g., up to 80 lbs), and some individual locations may be more flexible. It’s always best to call and confirm if you are traveling with a large dog.

Can I leave my pet unattended in the room?

Most hotels have strict policies against leaving pets unattended in the room. They often require that pets be crated if left alone or that you notify the front desk. This is for the safety of your pet and to ensure they don't cause any disturbances to other guests.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect pet-friendly hotel is no longer a needle-in-a-haystack search. With major chains like Red Roof Inn, Kimpton, and La Quinta leading the way, traveling with your pet has become more accessible and enjoyable than ever.

By choosing a hotel from this list, you can be confident that your furry friend will receive a warm welcome and that your stay will be comfortable and stress-free. Remember to always double-check the specific policies of the hotel you're booking and to pack everything your pet needs for a great trip. Happy travels!